Color of the Week: Violet Tulip

March 29, 2014

And here it is, the last color in Pantones Spring 2014 Color Forecast - Violet Tulip. A soft yet eye-catching color that screams spring but looks great year round. If you missed my previous posts on the other much anticipated colors of this spring, you can find them by clicking on each link below:



And last but not least, the final Spring 2014 color, Violet Tulip, & where to find each item. Enjoy!




1 / Aldari Home Violet Magnolia Tree Branches Pillow Cover / Etsy
2 / Violet Tulip Double Gourd Table Lamp / Lamps Plus
3 / Cambridge Lavender & Ivory Tufted Wool Rug / Layla Grace 
4 / Washed Authentic Slim Sneakers / Vans
5 / World Boutique Violet Tulip & Silver Bubble Bib Necklace / Zulily 
6 /  Lavender Crocheted Pouf / Land of Nod
7 / Orchard Gold Violet Tulip Grande Watch / Rumba
8 / Violet Tulip Interior / Pinterest
9 / The Lucky Elephant Violet Tulip Boho Beaded Leather Wrap Bracelet / Etsy 





Xo,









High & Low: Trendy yet Timeless

March 27, 2014




Xo,







Get the Look: Rustic Chic Living Space

March 20, 2014


This week I chose a living space designed by one of my favorite interior designers, Emily Henderson. Many would know her as the HGTV Design Star 2010 Winner. I especially love her for her eclectic, industrial & funky interior design style (and personality). She tends to mix contemporary with mid-century design & it couldn't work more in her favor. If you are a fan of this living space designed by Emily Henderson herself than you are in luck. I created the same look at a reasonable cost (and I even showed you where to find each item, too. Shh). Navy & gold is beautiful in many designs - throw in some chic, artsy pieces and you have a fun, inviting & stylish living space. 








1 / Martini Side Table in Antique Brass / $149 / West Elm
2 / Nate Berkus Oragami Print Window Panel 54"x95"/ $33.24 / Target
3 / Abstract Art Photo Collage / Etsy & West Elm
Top Left to Right:
7WondersDesign Print / $8 / Etsy
7wondersdesign Flower Bursts Multi Color Botanical Print / $23 / Etsy
LittlePrintPress Twenty Eight Yellow Leaves / $78.43 / Etsy
Geo Stitch Wall Art Squares / $24.99 / West Elm
Minted for West Elm Sunset / $99 / West Elm
Framed Print Theoretical Space / $129 / West Elm
Bottom Left to Right:
Framed Print  Plate LXXVII / $149 / West Elm
Minted for West Elm Amarillo Sunrise / $129 / West Elm
Framed Print Future Words / $169 / West Elm
Geo Stitch Wall Art Triangles / $54.99 / West Elm
4 / Rannka Handmade Pillow Cover / $50 / Etsy
Gurli Throw / $12.99 / Ikea
5 / Xbase 23 Pillow / $49.95 / CB2
6 / Morton Table Lamp / $169 / West Elm
7 / Entu Side Table / $349 / Crate & Barrel
Rhino Object / $29 / West Elm
8 / Dagmar Chair in Honey / $299 / Urban Outfitters
9 / Ukon Small Coffee Table Bench / $599 / Crate & Barrel
Faceted Terranium Small / $29 / West Elm
10 / Henry Sofa in Performance Velvet Ink Blue 86"/ $1,099 / West Elm
11 / Stockholm Flat woven Rug 8'x10' / $299 / Ikea
12 / White Marigold Paint Color / Benjamin Moore



Ready to be amazed?? The total of all that is pictured comes to only $4,233.83!! This total could be the price of only one high priced sofa so I'd say these are some pretty sweet finds. What is not included in price would be the amount of paint and frames for the unframed prints. Even with that included this whole living space would come to under $5,000! What is your favorite item in this space?? And feel free to check out Emily Hendersons website here for some more inspiring designs just like this one.





Xo, 




Color of the Week: Placid Blue

March 17, 2014


Pantone's Placid Blue is this weeks Color of the Week because of its ability to add style and a serene atmosphere to any space. As you can see in this mood board, this color is perfect to add a splash of color while creating a calm and cozy feel. I can picture using all of these items in my home. What are your thoughts? 







1 / Contemporary Placid Blue Apothecary Table Lamp / Lamps Plus
2 / Homespun Moroccan Trellis Beige Blue Rug 6'x9' / Rugs USA
3 / Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Elizabeth Bubble Vase / JCPenny
4 / Placid Blue Throw Pillows / Zazzle
5 / Rove Studio Minimalist Shower Curtain / Etsy
6 / Greek Key Cotton Knit Throw / C Wonder
7 / Oceans Candles / Pier 1


Only one more Pantone Spring 2014 color to go which will be posted next week. Stay tuned! 






Xo,












Get the Look: Cozy Beach Chic

March 11, 2014

Whenever I browse interior design photos for my design instagram or just for fun, I come across some photos where I just love the style and look so much that I would love to replicate some of the looks myself one day. I'm probably not the only one who thinks this way so I decided to come up with a different "Get the Look" each week. Each week will be a different style where I find a picture of an interior that inspires me and I browse the internet to find look-a-like items to replicate that particular look. Sounds good, right? If you're reading this and have a particular design style in mind, go ahead and find a photo of an interior that inspires you and I will dedicate one of my posts to it! Here we go...



I love the serene, beachy color scheme of this living space. This is a look that is perfect for a home right on the beach or if you're in the mountains or city and want to create a sophisticated, beachy-chic look. It's impossible to find an item exactly the same but the whole point of this is to replicate the look & style of the space. Sometimes if you look hard enough you can find items pretty darn close. I chose items from reasonable stores, one including Etsy. Whenever I have a chance I love to browse Etsy to find one-of-a-kind items that are handmade. I chose this theme because who doesn't love the beach? Below is where you can find each item.



1 / Scape 108 / $179. 95 / ZGallerie 
2 / Butterfield / Benjamin Moore
3 / Pillow Link White Linen Pillow Case / $24.66 / Etsy
Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover in Stone White / $69 / West Elm
4 / PB Comfort Square Slipcovered 3-Piece L-Shaped Sectional / $3,299 / Pottery Barn
5 / DRKDesigns Spa Blue Greek Key White Cotton Pillow Cover / $45 / Etsy
 Jacquard Leaf Silk Pillow Cover - Light Pool /$34 / West Elm
6 / ReclaimedandRustic Antique White Square Reclaimed Wood Coffee Table with Removable Legs / $245 / Etsy
7StyleGuides Succulent Do It Yourself Terrarium Kit / $14 / Etsy
7 / Loloi Rugs Alexandra Rug in Natural - 7'1''x11' / $427.95 / Joss and Main


This space comes to a total of $4,477.22! However, this does not include the cost of paint, pillow inserts and shipping.  Include those items and your total should be under $5,000. A living space under $5,000 with quality and handcrafted items is quite a deal to me! What are your thoughts on this space??




Xo,










(Photo Source: Pinterest)

Color of the Week: Paloma

March 10, 2014

This week I chose Pantones Paloma as Color of the Week as part of their Spring 2014 color forecast. You may refer to this color simply as gray but this particular shade of gray is quite beautiful. As you can see from my mood board it can be seen as a cool neutral in your home on your kitchen table, bedding and decor. Paloma can also be seen in fashion from your designer purse to nail polish and make up. This color looks sophisticated, chic AND fun. I really am loving all of the color picks for this spring and am so excited to incorporate them into my everyday life. The items I chose range from designer to handcrafted. Most of them you won't have to break the bank which is great! Which item is your favorite??



COLORofTHEWEEK: Paloma






1 / Frost Eye Shadow / Mac
2 / KUKAJTAcom Paloma Gray Stud Earrings / Etsy
3 / Weston Rug / Joss and Main
4 / Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Charlotte Fabric Picture Frame / JCPenny
5 / Pretty Vacant / Deborah Lippmann
6 / Large Miranda Pebbled Tote / Michael Kors
7 / Zig Zag Storage Ottoman / ZGallerie
8 / Eclectique Dinnerware Place Setting / Williams-Sonoma
9 / Organic Diamond Texture Duvet Cover + Shams / West Elm
10 / Hand-Loomed Diamond Pillow Cover in Feather Gray Ivory / West Elm





Xo,




Area Rugs: What Size is the Right Size?

March 7, 2014

I had asked on social media what topics others would like me to post about. My lovely sister mentioned the topic of area rugs and would find it helpful to know what size rug to buy for any space. Choosing an area rug that you like may be just as difficult as figuring out what size to purchase. But thanks to posts like this one, you no longer have to wonder how big your area rug should be in any room. You can thank my sister for this one ;) 


I did some pinteresting and came across some very helpful rug design guides created by Lisa Ferguson from Decor Mentor & added some extra tips as well. Hope this helps! 



Additional Living Room Tips:

1) Placing furniture halfway on and halfway off the rug as shown with size 4'x6' is a look that is used most of the time. This approach will make the room feel cozy and connect all the furniture for a cohesive look. 

2) If you're on a tight budget you may be able to splurge and get the rug you want but go down a few feet in size so all the furniture goes over the rug but not completely (think 4'x6 or 6'x9').

3) You could also so some furniture on and some off shown with the 6'x9' example above. This look will work better if you have a larger room.

4) Create a smooth transition from rug to flooring by purchasing a rug that is a similar tone to the existing flooring.

5) If you want all furniture on an area rug I would decide on the furniture placement and measure beforehand so it will make it easier to determine what size you need.

6) If you're more concerned with making sure an area covers the whole room, a good rule of thumb that has been around for ages is that there should be 18 inches of bare floor in between the perimeter of the room and the rug. This will introduce a sense of proportion and it all starts with the rug! If using this rule in a smaller room then think 8 inches in between instead of 18.


Additional Bedroom Tips:

1) In order for a rug to look balanced under a bed there should be a comfortable amount of rug space around the bed. A good range to have in mind is 12-18 inches. 12 inches for a twin bed and 18 inches for a queen or king. If your room is significantly large I would consider adding a few inches but never take away. 

2) If you don't want or need a rug directly under your bed but still have an empty space in front of your footboard you want to address, I would suggest placing a small rug (maybe a 4'x6') in front of the bed to add some interest. If you're to do this make the width of the rug wider than that of the bed to give the room balance.



If you're not able to read the tip in the picture above, when it comes to dining rooms always add 24 inches around the table to decide what size rug you need. You should be able to pull out all the chairs and the chair legs should remain on the rug.


Additional Area Rug Tips:


1) As for a hallways, the rug should cover the majority of the walking area. Make sure there's enough room so that when two people are walking next to each other they both can  walk 
safely and comfortably on the rug. I would suggest 5-8 inches of bare floor between the rug and wall in a hallway.

2) Don't be afraid to break up the rugs in your hallway by using 2 or more instead of one long one. You can also combine rugs in your living room or bedroom. I would suggest using two different ones that are the same or at least the same tone. Sticking to the same tone but two different patterns would work as well.





If you have any questions or ones concerning your specific space please comment and I will be sure to respond! :)




Xo,










(Sources: Decor Mentor, Houzz)

Stylish Lamps Under $75

March 6, 2014




Who doesn't love a lamp that's both stylish AND budget friendly?? I know it's hard to find an answer to that one which is why I put together 10 stylish & well priced lamps that suit a wide array of design styles. Whatever style you are looking for, I am sure you can find it in this list! I chose lamps under $75 because that's about half of a normal priced lamp. It's a perfect price point if you are looking to purchase one lamp for a desk or side table or two for a more symmetrical look. Get ready to be amazed that these are all under $75 - Enjoy! 


1. $69


This lamp has a beach-chic feel with an
 industrial touch.

4040 Locust Rope Table lamp



2. $64


A simple, stylish look perfect for any end table, 
console or nightstand.

Catalina Lighting Fluted Glass Table Lamp


3. $75


Mercury glass lamps are perfect if you are looking
 for something elegant and unique.

Teardrop Luxe Lamp


4. $59


If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind look with 
style then this lamp is a winner.

Mitzi Table Lamp


5. $49


This rustic accent lamp acts as a source of light and artful 
decor with it's bronze base, seeded glass shade and industrial Edison bulb.

Libby Seeded Glass Edison Bulb Accent Lamp 

6. $28


Love the linear look of this lamp and its ceramic, textured 
base provides an eclectic touch.

Threshold Ambient Table Lamp


7. $60



This colorful lamp in a shade of Pantones Hemlock 
will brighten up any space.

Double Gourd Ceramic Table Lamp


8. $69


This grey ceramic lamp with an acrylic glass base has
the same look as a designer style lamp but at
a much affordable cost.

Arturo Table Lamp


9. $40


With its leather base and fabric shade, this lamp
will add style and sophistication to any space at a 
budget friendly price.

Elegant Designs Modern Leather Table Lamp


10. $30


You can create a cozy and stylish look with this lamp
 and its aluminum base and textile shade.

Klabb Table Lamp







Now if you ever think that affording a stylish lamp or two is out of the question, think again. If I had to pick a favorite from this list it would have to be more than one because they are all so stylish, unique and reasonable. You can find each of the lamps by clicking on the link below them. Which lamp is your favorite?? 





Xo,











Color of the Week: Hemlock

March 3, 2014

Before it became part of Pantone's Spring 2014 Color Forecast, I never knew this color as hemlock. I can now say hemlock has been one of my favorite colors for quite a long time. I refer to it as seaglass blue but this particular hue has a deep, rich feeling to it. It also has a beachy chic feel that can lighten and freshen up any space. I am SO excited about this color this spring. I hope you are, too! 










1 / Filled Owl Candle / West Elm
2 / Arteriors Misha Half Crackle Glass Table Lamp / Layla Grace
3 / Blue Seaglass Hurricane Candleholders / World Market
4 / Hawkeye Oval Accent Pillow / Living Spaces
5 / Safavieh Thom Filicia Seaglass Blue Area Rug / Rug Studio 
6 / Gucci
Mint Candy Apple / Essie










Xo,




Home Staging in NYC with West Elm

March 2, 2014

West Elm is one of my favorite home furniture and decor stores. As a Design Assistant for DLT Interiors we incorporated West Elm in a bunch of our designs. Last year we staged a penthouse suite in Manhattan and had to work with a lot of the existing furniture. Not to worry though! We went to our local West Elm store by Columbus Circle and with the help of a friendly store associate we chose many items to style the living room, dining table and bedrooms. We seriously lucked out. Although on a budget, we were able to purchase what we needed for all three rooms and everything we chose went really well with the existing furniture and decor. By using gender neutral colors (gray, white, yellow, brown, green) we were able to create stylish looks that potential buyers could picture themselves living. Looking back I can't believe I never posted on this! What I love about West Elm is not only their great prices but also the versatile design styles that you can choose from throughout the store. Most of these items are still available on the West Elm website! Under each picture is a direct link to the items from each space. I really love how this home staging turned out - What do you think?



Master Bedroom 


This master bedroom came with the side tables, lamps, bed frame and accent chair. All the furniture throughout the space had very modern, clean lines. We chose the seersucker duvet and textured pillows to soften up the room and add contrast. Mirrors are a great way to add elegant decor while reflecting light. The Ayo Wook rug is one of my favorite pieces from West Elm - perfect for any space in your home.




Guest Room


This bedroom already had the crystal lamps and Andy Warhol art so we chose to use the colors to our advantage and accessorize with green decor. The faceted mirror side tables are one of my favorite items from West Elm and go well with the existing lamps. 



Upstairs Bedroom


This space is probably my favorite! I'm a sucker for natural materials and anything "beachy chic". This bedroom already came with the coral lamps and marble side tables. To continue a natural theme we chose the botanical bedding set, a natural jute rug and succulent wall art. 




Living & Dining Area


Prior to staging, everything in the space was black and white other than the animal print side chairs and gold accent table. So we chose the colors brown and mustard to tie the living and dining space together. We also moved the existing gold side table to the corner to have your eye flow around the space. The pillows of choice are great too because it adds much needed warmth to the leather furniture.



And last but not least, the views this penthouse had were simply stunning! There was a view facing every angle in NYC! Below is the Freedom Tower in the distance. I love & miss my city!





Thanks for stopping by! Until next time...




Xo,










(All links from WestElm.com)